Police Appeal After Armed Intruder Breaks into New Lodge Flat

Police are appealing for information and footage from the community following a frightening aggravated burglary at a residential flat in the New Lodge area.

The incident occurred shortly before 5.10am on Monday, 9th November, in the New Lodge Place area. A woman inside the home was woken by an intruder who had entered through a rear door while brandishing two knives.

After entering the property, the man took the woman's mobile phone and moved into the hallway, where a physical scuffle broke out between them. The phone was discarded during the struggle, but the intruder then moved into the living room and grabbed the victim's purse, leading to another altercation.

During the confrontation, the suspect dropped the knives before fleeing through the front door, running down the stairs and heading in the direction of the New Lodge Road.

Detective Sergeant Long confirmed that enquiries indicate the man gained entry via a rear door, adding: "Thankfully the woman was uninjured as a result of this incident, however, this would have been a terrifying ordeal."

The suspect is described as being approximately 5' 5" in height and was wearing all-black clothing along with a black beanie hat.

Local residents who may have noticed any suspicious activity or who have relevant CCTV, doorbell, or dash-cam footage from the surrounding streets are urged to assist the investigation. Anyone with information can contact police on 101, quoting reference number 132 09/11/26. Alternatively, reports can be submitted through the PSNI online reporting portal or shared completely anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.